Domestic Violence Survivors Require Ongoing Counseling Support

Counseling Department Works to Help Students Mitigate the Problem

MEDIA CONTACT: Donell Pettus, [email protected], 240-817-7870

(BOWIE, Md.) - As domestic violence continues to grow nationally, students at Bowie State University are learning from and collaborating with victims to develop or augment programs designed to reduce the incidents and provide effective counseling to the survivors.

Maryland faces significant challenges with domestic violence affecting a considerable portion of the population according to the 2024 World Population Review. Approximately 35% of women in the state report having experienced domestic violence at some point in their lives, reflecting national concerns about intimate partner violence, which includes physical, sexual and psychological abuse.

Dr. Masica Jordan-Alston, assistant professor in the Department of Counseling and Psychological Studies, brings a powerful and empathetic perspective to the discussion of breaking cycles of violence. Through work with graduate students, she emphasizes the importance of recognizing trauma's impact on individuals and communities and fostering spaces that empower people to heal and thrive.

"In our Graduate School Preparation Institute, we come together for two weeks during the summer and begin teaching students how to set up programs or services to help survivors of domestic violence heal," said Dr. Jordan-Alston. "Many times they are using their own experiences to help guide them. So far, we've taught over 100 students how to navigate through the various nuances and trauma that accompany domestic violence."

The institute is open to counseling psychology, mental health, school counseling and school psychology master's degree students.

The prevalence of domestic violence in Maryland highlights the need for accessible support and resources for survivors. Maryland's domestic violence shelters and support organizations frequently report high demand for their services.

With firsthand knowledge of the complexities and pain that come with domestic violence, Jordan-Alston offers a voice of understanding and support for students and survivors alike.

"Healing is possible, and no one has to go through recovering from domestic violence alone," she said. "It is crucial to recognize and not ignore warning signs in friendships, relationships and family dynamics."

In addition to the master's -level graduate programs, Bowie State also offers a doctoral program in Counselor Education and Supervision with a specialization in Social Justice Counseling.

Domestic Violence Month is observed in October, but Jordan-Alston notes it is a persistent problem that impacts everyone 365 days a year.

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About Bowie State University
Founded in 1865, Bowie State University is the first Historically Black College/University (HBCU) in Maryland and one of the ten oldest in the country. As a leading institution of higher learning, Bowie State offers more than 65 bachelor's, master's, doctoral and certificate programs across arts and sciences, technology, business, education, healthcare and related disciplines. The university provides high-quality and affordable educational opportunities in a supportive environment that empowers students to think critically, make new discoveries, value differences and emerge as leaders in a highly technical, rapidly changing global society. For more information about Bowie State University, visit bowiestate.edu.

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